Average Head teachers and principals Salary in Merton
ONS ASHE 2025 · London region · Updated October 2025
How Merton compares
In practical terms, a head teachers and principals in the London earned a median of £71,111 during 2025, which works out to 0.2% above the UK-wide median of £70,977. This is particularly notable amid well-documented teacher recruitment and retention challenges across the UK. Factor in the London's cost of living (16.4% above the UK norm) and a £71,111 salary has the purchasing power of approximately £61,092. To put this alongside local pay more broadly: the average across all jobs in Merton is £32,983, so head teachers and principalss sit 115.6% more that benchmark.
Cost of Living Adjustment
After adjusting for the regional cost of living (London index: 116.4, UK=100), a salary of £71,111 has an effective purchasing power of approximately £61,092 — equivalent to earning that amount in an area with average UK costs. The cost of living in the London is 16.4% above the UK average.
Head teachers and principals salary across UK regions
Head teachers and principals salary in areas near Merton
Salary data is by ONS region. Merton is in the London region. Below are neighbouring regions — click to explore salaries there.
Head teachers and principals Salary Guide
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average head teachers and principals salary in Merton?
The median head teachers and principals salary in the London (which includes Merton) is £71,111 per year, based on ONS ASHE 2025 data. The mean salary is typically higher due to top earners pulling the average up.
How does head teachers and principals pay in Merton compare to the UK average?
Head teachers and principals in the London earn 0.2% above the national median of £70,977. This makes the London one of the higher-paying regions for this role.
Is head teachers and principals a well-paid job in Merton compared to other roles?
The average salary across all jobs in Merton is £32,983. Head teachers and principals in the London earn £71,111, which is 115.6% above the local average across all occupations.
About this data
Salary figures for head teachers and principalss cover the London region. The all-jobs average is specific to Merton. Source: ONS ASHE 2025. Methodology.